Nobuyuki Zaizen

Nobuyuki Zaizen (財前 宣之) is a Japanese former professional footballer who played as a midfielder.

Early and personal life
Zaizen was born in Muroran on 19 October 1976. His elder brother Keiichi is also a former footballer.

Club career
He joined Verdy Kawasaki from their youth team in 1995. In 1996, he moved to La Liga club Logroñés on loan. However he could not play in the match for injury and returned to Japan. He debuted in 1998 J.League Cup. Through Croatian club Rijeka, he joined J2 League club Vegalta Sendai in 1999. He played as offensive midfielder in many matches. In 2001, he became a regular player and the club was promoted to J1 League first time in the club history. From 2002, although his opportunity to play decreased and the club was relegated J2 League end of 2003 season, he played as regular player again from 2004. He moved to Montedio Yamagata in 2006. In 2008, although his opportunity to play decreased, the club was promoted to J1 League first time in the club history. In 2010, he moved to Thailand and played for Muangthong United (2010) and BEC Tero Sasana (2011). He announced his retirement in January 2012.

National team career
In August 1993, Zaizen was part of the Japanese under-17 team at the 1993 U-17 World Championship, playing in all 4 matches. He was selected a member of the 'All Star' team at the tournament.